By Justin, Georgetown University
At the Democratic National Convention, the Obamas made mention of the fact that they struggled with college loans into their adult lives. They recognize that tuition isn’t the only growing burden for so many students across the country. The rising cost of textbooks is an added financial strain – one for which many of us will be bracing ourselves as schools begin their academic year. The Washington Post recently directed some attention to the trouble with textbooks and college affordability:
“The rising cost of college textbooks has driven Congress and nearly three dozen states -- including Maryland and Virginia -- to attempt to curtail prices and controversial publishing practices through legislation. But as the fall semester begins, students are unlikely to see much relief.“Estimates of how much students spend on textbooks range from $700 to $1,100 annually, and the market for new books is estimated at $3.6 billion this year. Between 1986 and 2004, the price of textbooks nearly tripled, rising an average of 6 percent a year while inflation rose 3 percent, according to a 2005 report by the Government Accountability Office. In California, the state auditor reported last week that prices have skyrocketed 30 percent in four years.“‘It's really hard just paying for tuition alone’, said Annaiis Wilkinson, 19 and a student at Trinity Washington University who spends about $500 a semester on books. ‘It really sets people back’.”
“Last month, Congress passed legislation forcing publishers to release more information about their prices. It also requires them to sell a textbook separately rather than packaged with a CD or workbook that makes for a more expensive purchase. However, the provisions do not take effect until 2010.“Meanwhile, although 34 states have introduced similar proposals over the past three years, only six states have approved them. Virginia passed its Textbook Fairness Act in 2005, but Maryland's bills have died in committee for three years. Any impact of the new laws at the cash register remains to be seen.”
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